Your Foundation Dilemmas Solved

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Your Foundation Dilemmas Solved

Foundation Dilemma: Deep Complexion

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Discoloration can ruin a clear canvas and the more melanin you have in your skin, the higher your chances of getting darks spots and hyperpigmentation. Problem is, foundation alone isn’t always enough. So for skin that’s rich in color, add concealer. Makeup artist Alana Wright applies foundation first, then dabs concealer on the dark spots. If they still peek through, use a color corrector to neutralize the mark and follow with another dab of concealer. Try a color-correcting primer, like Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation ($38, smashbox.com). The apricot tint helps to counterbalance discoloration.

Your Shade Match: Deep Complexion

Your Perfect Match: Deep Complexion

Foundation Dilemma: Dark Complexion

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Matching your undertone can be a dilemma for dark brown skin tones. Many companies defer to red. But if the base is too red, the foundation leaves an obvious line of demarcation between your jawline and your neck. To find your undertone, take a look at the veins in your forearm. “If they appear blue, then you’re most likely cool,” explains Uzo, Nars international makeup stylist. “If they look more green, then you’re warm.” Technology is making the search easier too: Artistry Balancing Foundation’s ($26, amway.com) Ideal Shade Technology allows the pigment to self-adjust to mimic your exact skin tone.

Your Perfect Match: Medium Complexion

Your Perfect Match: Medium Complexion

Foundation Dilemma: Fair Complexion

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Broken capillaries and splotchy redness show up more on fair-skinned women of color. A good sheer-to-medium coverage product usually visually erases this. If more coverage is needed, opt for a yellow-to-olive-toned concealer, says Thomas. For redness, Uzo says to use a multitasking primer that preps the skin and soothes it. And we found that even though there are more options, lighter skin tones can still be hard to match. The key is to find a foundation that doesn’t have an overly pink base, says Wright. When you go to the counter, ask for options with a neutral undertone.

Your Perfect Match: Fair Complexion

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NP Set It Takes Two Concealer & Foundation Pot in Set 1 ($35, Target).